Select a question below to expand the answer.
Why do stallions and mares imported from certain foreign countries have to undergo CEM quarantine on arrival in the United States?
CEM is a disease that does not exist in the United States. Breeding animals originating from countries where CEM exists must enter approved CEM quarantine facilities for testing procedures. These procedures must be conducted to prove that horses are not affected with CEM.
Why are non-breeding horses (i.e., geldings) not required to undergo CEM quarantine on arrival in the United States?
CEM is a sexually transmitted disease that is spread by breeding horses. Therefore, sexually immature horses and geldings are exempt from CEM quarantine on arrival in the United States.
Where can I obtain a CEM Owner's Agreement for Quarantine and Application for Import?
The form is available for download[ 
], or you can obtain by it writing to the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) at 407 S. Calhoun St., Tallahassee, FL 32399-0800, or by calling us at (850) 410-0900.
Where can I obtain a list of approved CEM quarantine facilities in Florida?
Contact FDACS at (850) 410-0900 or contact a broker.
How do I obtain the services of a Florida licensed and federally accredited veterinarian to perform the required quarantine procedures?
The approved CEM quarantine facility operator will provide a qualified veterinarian to perform the required procedures or you may request the services of any other qualified veterinarian.
What fees are charged by the state for mares and stallions undergoing CEM quarantine procedures?
FDACS charges $1,250 for a single horse and $750 for each additional horse owned by the same individual or business in a shipment of two or more horses.
These fees cover the cost of a state-employed veterinarian providing oversight for all required procedures performed from the time the animal arrives at the facility until the animal leaves the facility. The procedure requires several visits by the state-employed veterinarian for travel and time spent.
The steps of the procedure include:
- Breaking the seal on the transporting vehicle,
- Issuing quarantine and
- Providing oversight on all diagnostic procedures and tests conducted by the attending veterinarian.
The state-employed veterinarian is responsible for releasing the quarantine when all diagnostic tests and procedures are completed.
What is the procedure for any stallion/mare failing to qualify for the release from CEM quarantine?
If a horse fails to qualify for release from CEM quarantine within 18 months of initiation of testing and treatment, the horse may:
- Be humanely euthanized or
- Be exported back to country of origin as permitted by country of origin.
